The only executive of Rivers State, Vice-Chancellor IBOK-ETE IBAS (Retirement), has confirmed the release of the withheld local government grants and ensure that workers’ salaries will be paid without further delays.
The fund has been withheld in the state after the crisis, and the Supreme Court ruled that the grant would be approved until the state Capitol appropriately approves its grant.
But on Wednesday, March 19, federal attorney general and attorney general, San Lateef Fagbemi, said the fund could be released by the sole administrator.
Speaking to the state legislator correspondent at the Presidential Villa of Abuja, Fagbemi said: “If the administrator asks it, I would say it should be released to him.”
He added: “For me, it would be to free the fund because the event of a special case has lifted them out of normal circumstances.”
The release of funds was confirmed at a meeting with the heads of local government managers on Friday, and IBAS guaranteed that the necessary steps are being taken to quickly resolve wage arrears.
“I feel the pain of these workers, many of whom have been under financial pressure for months. Let me assure you that the allocation of the withholding has been released, and I have issued a local order to take all the necessary steps to ensure that these salaries are no longer delayed without delay,” he said.
He stressed the need for inclusive and transformative leadership.
“As leaders, we have to feel the pain of our people and provide them with more positive, inclusive and transformative leadership. This is the task I accept, and it is the standard I expect.”
The IBA also directs all local government regions to submit their payroll bills through the Office of Service Supervisors to promote transparency and accountability.
“For this, I further point out here that all local government areas provide wage bills to my office through the Office of the Services Supervisor.
“This will allow me to familiarize myself with this situation, as it will allow me to handle such issues. All of these submissions should be supported by relevant documents to provide clarity and ensure accuracy.”
He stressed the importance of accountability, warning that financial transparency will be strictly enforced in local government councils. The IBA also urges local government managers to play an active role in maintaining security in their respective areas.
“You have to lead to ensure safety in the domain,” he said.
In response, Clifford Paul, chairman of the Nigerian Local Government Employees Alliance and administrator of the Port Harcourt local government area, praised the state’s political conflict but still praised the administrator’s efforts.
He thanked the federal government for its decision to appoint the sole administrator and described Ibas as a qualified leader. He further committed to supporting peace and stability, while urging executives to give priority to the welfare of local government staff.
